In some examples, a first electronic control unit (ECU) receives zone sensor data of a plurality of zones associated with a vehicle. For instance, a respective second ECU and a respective set of zone sensors is associated with each respective zone of the plurality of zones. Based on an indicated driving mode of the vehicle, the first ECU may perform recognition on the zone sensor data from a first zone of the plurality of zones to determine first recognition information. The first ECU receives second recognition information from the respective second ECUs of the respective zones. For instance, the respective second ECUs are configured to perform recognition processing on respective zone sensor data from the set of zone sensors of the respective zones. Based on the first recognition information and the second recognition information, the first ECU sends at least one control signal to at least one vehicle actuator.
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9. The method as recited in claim 8, wherein the first ECU has a higher data processing capability than the respective second ECUs associated with the respective zones.
The invention relates to a distributed electronic control system for managing vehicle functions, addressing the challenge of efficiently processing and distributing data across multiple electronic control units (ECUs) to optimize performance and reduce latency. The system includes a central ECU with superior data processing capabilities compared to secondary ECUs, each assigned to specific vehicle zones. The central ECU handles high-priority tasks, such as real-time decision-making and complex computations, while the secondary ECUs manage localized functions within their designated zones. This hierarchical structure ensures that critical operations are processed by the most capable unit, while less demanding tasks are distributed to the secondary ECUs, improving overall system efficiency. The central ECU may also coordinate data exchange between the secondary ECUs, ensuring seamless integration and minimizing communication delays. This approach enhances vehicle performance by reducing computational load on individual ECUs and enabling faster response times for critical functions. The system is particularly useful in modern vehicles where multiple ECUs must work together to manage advanced driver-assistance systems, infotainment, and other vehicle functions.
14. The method as recited in claim 8, wherein subsequent to a failure of the first ECU, one of the second ECUs is configured to send, based at least on subsequently determined second recognition information, at least one subsequent control signal to at least one vehicle actuator.
This invention relates to a redundant control system for vehicles, specifically addressing the problem of maintaining vehicle functionality when a primary electronic control unit (ECU) fails. The system includes multiple ECUs, where a first ECU operates as the primary controller for vehicle functions, and at least one second ECU serves as a backup. In the event of a failure in the first ECU, one of the second ECUs takes over control. The backup ECU uses subsequently determined recognition information, such as sensor data or vehicle state information, to generate and send control signals to vehicle actuators, ensuring continuous operation. The recognition information may include data from sensors, vehicle dynamics, or other relevant sources, allowing the backup ECU to make informed decisions. The system ensures seamless transition of control, minimizing disruptions and maintaining vehicle safety and performance. The invention is particularly useful in autonomous or highly automated vehicles where reliability and redundancy are critical.
16. The system as recited in claim 15, wherein the first ECU has a higher processing capability than the respective second ECUs associated with the respective zones.
The invention relates to a distributed electronic control system for vehicles, addressing the challenge of efficiently managing multiple vehicle functions across different zones while optimizing computational resources. The system includes a central electronic control unit (ECU) with higher processing capability and multiple secondary ECUs, each assigned to a specific vehicle zone (e.g., powertrain, chassis, or infotainment). The central ECU handles high-priority or complex tasks, while the secondary ECUs manage localized functions, reducing the load on the central processor. This hierarchical structure improves system responsiveness and reliability by distributing workloads based on processing needs. The central ECU's superior processing power ensures critical operations are executed efficiently, while the secondary ECUs operate with lower computational demands, conserving energy and reducing costs. The system may also include communication interfaces to facilitate data exchange between the ECUs, ensuring seamless coordination across vehicle zones. This architecture enhances overall vehicle performance by balancing computational resources and optimizing task allocation.
20. The system as recited in claim 15, wherein subsequent to a failure of the first ECU, one of the second ECUs is configured to send, based at least on subsequently determined second recognition information, at least one subsequent control signal to at least one vehicle actuator.
This invention relates to a redundant control system for vehicles, addressing the problem of maintaining vehicle functionality when a primary electronic control unit (ECU) fails. The system includes multiple ECUs, where a first ECU is the primary controller for vehicle actuators, and at least one second ECU serves as a backup. The second ECUs monitor the first ECU and, upon detecting a failure, take over control. The second ECUs use recognition information, such as sensor data or vehicle state information, to determine the appropriate control signals for the actuators. After the first ECU fails, one of the second ECUs sends subsequent control signals based on newly determined recognition information, ensuring continuous operation of the vehicle. The system may also include a communication interface for exchanging data between the ECUs and a memory for storing the recognition information. The redundant design improves reliability by ensuring that critical vehicle functions remain operational even if the primary controller fails.
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February 25, 2022
May 21, 2024
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